Well it’s finally happening! Kids are coming back to church. Glory to God! We could not be more ecstatic about this.
But on a less celebratory note, in some cases, only the children are coming back. Honestly, some parents either got out of the habit or found the teaching they wanted online (let’s face it, when the only option was virtual, a parent could log in to watch excellent preaching from anywhere in the country), so some are not as eager to attend in person. However, what could not be replicated online was children's and student ministries. Parents recognize their kids and students are the ones who missed out the most in a year of virtual church. They need interaction and friendships, so parents are bringing them. But in some cases, the parents then drive away and return to pick up their kids when the gathering is over.
This can be distressing because of course we want entire families in person, connecting, and building relationships that sharpen one another. So what’s a pastor to do? We say exactly what Jesus said: let the children come (Matthew 19:14). We can never turn kids away; we rejoice in them coming, even if they come alone. Perhaps, especially if they come alone. But we don’t have to leave it at that. Why not use the children’s attendance as a bridge to invite their parents back into something they can’t get online, or at home alone? Keep reading for some fun examples.
At my home church, we have noticed an amazing phenomenon. Recently we have had more kids than before Covid. Glory to God again! And their families attend with them. We also have lots of new families visiting. We think this might be a big contributing factor:
Our church launched “Summer Tables,” with the tagline, “Share a meal. Share life.” Two weeks ago we set up picnic tables and big umbrellas on our front lawn, and we also rented huge inflatable water slides. After our morning gathering, we invited everyone to stay for fun and food and most importantly: reconnection. (This could easily be recreated for less expense with bright blankets on the lawn and a few sprinklers nearby.) We even had “conversation starter” questions in plastic jars on every table. The most important thing is people! People attract people. And fun attracts people. And we believe several hours of conversation and laughter for the entire family reminds adults how much they long for relationships too.
We are all for in-depth Bible study at the right time, but it might just be some lightweight fun and face-to-face connection that entice adults to come back, since that’s what we can’t really get virtually. Next step ideas might be to invite dads to a men’s breakfast, with the same concept: Fun, food, and connection. Let kids craft the invitation on Sunday to take home to their dads. Something low-key and casual, like corn hole and coffee. Maybe have a men's gathering once per month through the summer. Let men reconnect and see what small groups might form from there. And you can do a similar take for women. Perhaps try a Pinterest-type craft night or painting party. Float ideas by some members to see what strikes the most interest. Again, the real point is forming relationships because relationships are key to regular attendance and life accountability.
The Church is making strides back to togetherness. If your kids’ numbers are growing, take the initiative to reach out to the rest of your staff to see how your children’s ministry might help encourage every family member to re-engage.
We’d love to hear what ideas are working at your church!